Study on the Structure, Thermal Properties, and Mechanical Properties of PMMA-grafted SBR/Clay Nanocomposites

Abstract

PMMA-grafted SBR/clay nanocomposites (PM-g S/C nano) were prepared by emulsion polymerization. In this polymerization process, it simultaneously contained MMA monomer grafting on to SBR polymer chains and polymer chains intercalating into clay layers. The grafting group can give the compatibility of clay with rubber, and improve the dispersion of clay in the rubber matrix. To compare with PM-g S/C nano, SBR/clay nanocomposites (S/C nano) and neat SBR were also prepared. The nanocomposites were characterized by using infrared spectra, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, and tensile tester. The results showed that the clay could be well dispersed in the rubber matrix. The nanocomposites showed good thermal stability. The Tg of the nanocomposites were lower than that of the neat SBR, and decreased with the increasing clay concentration. The storage modulus of the nanocomposites was higher than that of neat SBR. Compared to S/C nano and neat SBR, the PM-g S/C nano had substantially higher mechanical properties.